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Gender and national differences in attitudes toward same-gender touch

F N Willis1, V A Rawdon

  • 1Psychology Department, University of Missouri-Kansas City 64110.

Perceptual and Motor Skills
|June 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

This study explored cross-cultural attitudes toward same-gender touch. US women viewed touch more positively than US men, while Malaysians had the most negative views, highlighting cultural variations in touch perception.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology

Background:

  • Research indicates women generally hold more positive views on same-gender touch.
  • Limited cross-cultural data exists regarding perceptions and acceptance of same-gender touch.
  • Understanding cultural nuances in touch is crucial for interpersonal dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate cross-cultural differences in attitudes toward same-gender touch.
  • To compare male and female students' perceptions of same-gender touch across diverse cultures.
  • To identify national variations in the acceptance of physical touch between same-gender individuals.

Main Methods:

  • A same-gender touch scale was administered to male and female students.
  • Participants were recruited from four countries: the United States, Spain, Malaysia, and Chile.

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  • Quantitative data analysis was used to compare attitudinal scores across groups.

    • Main Results:

    • US women reported more positive attitudes toward same-gender touch than US men.
    • Malaysian students exhibited significantly more negative scores compared to students from the US, Spain, and Chile.
    • Spanish and US students generally had more positive scores than Chilean students, indicating national differences.

    Conclusions:

    • Significant cross-cultural variations exist in attitudes toward same-gender touch.
    • Cultural background profoundly influences the perception and acceptance of physical touch.
    • Further research employing novel methodologies is needed to comprehensively study cross-cultural touch differences.